Nonprofit helps Houston high school seniors ‘Say Yes to the Prom Dress'

HOUSTON – It’s a Prom “pop-up shop” where everything is free!

On Saturday, Communities In Schools of Houston, a nonprofit organization that focuses on high school dropout prevention, gave prom goers from Spring Branch Independent School District’s Stratford, Northbrook and Spring Woods high schools an opportunity they might not have otherwise had.

GALLERY: "Say 'YES' to the Prom Dress"

“Say Yes to the Prom Dress” pop-up boutique outfits girls in free formal gowns, accessories and shoes. The girls can even work with a personal shopper to help them pick the perfect match.

“We tell them to buy the prom ticket, and we’ll help you with the rest,” said Celix Cortez with CIS.

The organization also provides transportation for girls who need it.

The average high school senior spends hundreds of dollars preparing for the once-in-a-lifetime experience. Not everyone can afford the hefty cost, especially when saving for college.

Some ladies might even skip prom because of its price tag, but CIS is offering an alternative with the “Say Yes to the Prom Dress” pop-up boutique. 

Tammy Smith and Paula Tosh of Chapelwood United Methodist Church first reached out to Northbrook High School six years ago when the event began, later Spring Woods High School was added. They are the two largest schools in the Springbranch Independent School District. 

CIS partners with student support specialists who work with educators and organizations in the community to “help kids with whatever it takes to stay focused on studies and get the full school experience” with “Say Yes to the Prom Dress.”

Project manager at Northbrook High School Beth Corley said “Say Yes to the Prom Dress” is special to her because she's seen so many girls’ self-esteem boosted by the project. 

“Knowing that they can come in and shop and feel free and feel beautiful without having to worry about, ‘Oh my gosh, I can't afford the shoes’ or ‘ I can get the shoes but I can't get the dress,” Corely said. “It's just priceless to see their faces.”

Dozens of girls pre-registered for the event. Many of the seniors are the first in their families who plan to go to college.

Several weeks before the event, announcements are made at the participating high schools. Seniors, or their parents, can sign students up to participate. 

There is no income requirement and all girls considering going to prom are encouraged to sign up. 
Any school within Springbranch ISD can participate by signing up through CIS. 

Donations are accepted year around through CIS, at a participating high school and at Chapelwood United Methodist Church.